Do you really know? Are girls really worse at maths?
Dec 26, 2025
Despite girls performing as well as boys in primary school math, they often lack confidence by secondary school. This shift is influenced by stereotypes and social expectations, steering them away from STEM fields. Research indicates that perceptions of ability lead to fewer girls taking A-level math. Programs like Girls into Maths aim to boost confidence and change this narrative. Ultimately, with the right support, girls can excel just as much in math and science.
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Early Parity, Later Divergence
- Girls perform as well as boys in primary school maths and sometimes better.
- The gender gap often widens by secondary school due to non-ability factors.
Confidence, Not Competence
- Boys outperform girls in some year groups due to confidence and belonging differences, not ability.
- Girls often say they can't do maths even when their results prove otherwise.
Stereotypes Drive Choices
- There's no genetic reason why girls would be worse at maths.
- Stereotypes and social expectations shape perceptions and subject choices from an early age.